The Kāuri forest held the essence of life. The trees surrounded the Father of the Forest, a tree protected and preserved by mankind and his invention of cork. Spiritual significance grows from the deep roots of this tree for 3,500 years. Then, the God of the Forest. The 2nd oldest Kāuri and the largest tree known to man. Welcomed with a prayer, we gave a moment of silence. Cultural ties keep the Maori close to the tree; they respect nature and encourage us to do our part.